Debate continues over proposed smacking ban by Welsh Government

The proposed law by the Welsh Government to ban smacking children has divided opinions.

Plans by the Welsh Government to ban the smacking of children are the target for a campaign called ‘Be Reasonable’. The campaign is against the proposals claiming they will criminalise ordinary parents and are not supported by parents or the public.

Campaign supporter Dr. Ashley Frawley, a sociology and social policy expert from Swansea University believes that the ban could open the floodgates to an increased number of minor incidents being reported to already over stretched police and social services.

Colin Harris who was a solicitor for 45 years and participant on the Law Society Children’s panel believes parental authority shouldn’t be undermined and that children who are not effectively disciplined can grow into adults that have a negative impact on society. He said:

“I practised criminal law for decades. Criminalising a smack given in love and as necessary parental discipline cannot be justified.”

The Welsh Government has defended the move advising: “ We have made a firm commitment to seek cross party support for legislation to remove the defence of reasonable punishment. This will perform part of our wider work to promote positive parenting.”

Andy James, Chairman of Children are Unbeatable a campaign supporting the ban argued: “ No one has the right to hit another person or to punish and control them. Children should have the same protection from the law that we enjoy as adults.”

The Welsh Government does not yet have powers to make laws on parental discipline. However these will be devolved to Wales from Westminister as plans are made to give more powers to the assembly as part of the Wales Bill.